Abstract

PIMENTEL-EQUIHUA, José Luis; VELAZQUEZ-MACHUCA, Martha A.  and  PALERM-VIQUEIRA, Jacinta. Alluvium Deposits and Social Organization: the Crecienteros of Tangancicuaro. Terra Latinoam [online]. 2011, vol.29, n.3, pp.333-341. ISSN 2395-8030.

This article discusses a case study from the Tangancicuaro Valley in Michoacan (Mexico) concerning a cultivation practice based on the use of alluvium deposits to enhance agricultural productivity by exploiting the material left behind by muddy, free-running waters. The organizational and technical aspects of this practice -called enlamado in Mexico- are described, as is the nature of the social organization it requires. Based on physical and chemical analyses of the waters and sediment deposited in agricultural fields, the essay shows that this technique changes the soil’s texture and phosphorus and organic material content. This practice broadens the technological diversity available for improving agricultural soils and their sustainability.

Keywords : alluvium deposits; social organization; free-running water; soil enhancement.